Here’s a check-list for you to follow

FOUR TO SIX WEEKS BEFORE THE PARTY

  • Make a guest list
  • Make a tentative schedule of party activities
  • Decide which decorations and favors to make and which to buy
  • List all supplies needed
  • Plan the party menu
  • Contact the Lee Curtis the Magical Wizard (But you knew that.)

TWO TO THREE WEEKS BEFORE THE PARTY

  • Make/buy invitations.
  • Mail or drop off invitations.
  • Buy party supplies.
  • Start making party decorations and favors.
  • Order cake from bakery if you’re not making your own.
  • Arrange for extra help.

ONE WEEK BEFORE THE PARTY

  • Finish decorations and favors.
  • Confirm any orders placed for cake and/or party supplies.
  • Bake cake and freeze it, if making your own cake.
  • Make any other foods that can be made ahead of time and store in the freezer.
  • Write out a final schedule of activities for the party.

TWO to THREE DAYS BEFORE THE PARTY

  • Buy remaining food for the party.
  • Buy film and/or videotape.
  • Check batteries for cameras, flash units and/or camcorders.
  • Get an exact guest count. Tally responses and call those who haven’t responded.

ONE DAY BEFORE THE PARTY

  • Finish decorating cake or pick up that cake from bakery. (To keep cake fresh, insert toothpicks along perimeter and in middle section of the cake, 1/2″ deep. Cover loosely with foil or plastic wrap. Place in refrigerator.)
  • Child-proof party area.
  • Decorate any indoor areas of party. (Do not decorate outside area until the day of the party. Overnight weather can damage decorations.)
  • Prepare all “Do-Ahead” food.

THE DAY OF THE PARTY

  • Prepare the rest of the food.
  • Decorate outside party area.
  • Mark the outside of the house or the party area with balloons or a sign.
  • Keep your schedule of party activities handy.